Malaysia’s Indian party votes to leave BN, signals tie-up with rival coalition

MIC’s move reflects unease about being politically sidelined after 2022 election

- Hazlin Hassan Malaysia Correspondent

The Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) has approved a motion to quit the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition, giving the clearest signal yet that it may join rival Perikatan Nasional (PN).

The move on Nov 16 has sharpened scrutiny over the party’s political relevance and future, far removed from when it was a pillar of the BN coalition that had governed Malaysia uninterrupted for six decades.

Party president S. Vigneswaran told The Straits Times on Nov 17 that its central working committee will deliberate on the matter in December. MIC has pledged to continue supporting Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s unity government until the end of his term, even if the party decides to part ways with BN.

Malaysia’s next general election is due in 2028, and may be held earlier.

Delegates passed the resolution at MIC’s annual general assembly on Nov 16, when Tan Sri Vigneswaran urged them to consider whether BN is still a viable political home.

“The existing cooperation no longer provides space for MIC to play an effective role to champion the interests of the Indian community and contribute meaningfully to national development,” Mr Vigneswaran said.

He ruled out the possibility of MIC going solo, saying the party must join another coalition if it does leave BN.

The resolution reflects deeper unease among party leaders and members who feel MIC has been steadily sidelined, after a poor performance in the 2022 general election.